Sedie's Place

Animoto - Neckwarmers by Yarn Obsession

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 20:40:00 +0000

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Worcester MA Real Estate Market Report August 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Worcester, MA the "Heart of the Commonwealth". The real estate landscape shaped up in August 2010 to include the following:

Total properties sold - 118 (down 29 units from 2009 and 48 units from 2008)

Average days on market - 91 (down 36 days from 2009 and 70 from 2008)

Average list price - $182,502 (down $9,877 from 2009 and $4,602 from 2008)

Average sale price - $175,536 (down $7,947 from 2009 and $2,260 from 2008)

Average sale price to list price ratio - 97% (up 1% from 2009 and 2% from 2008)

So, historically in August over the past two years the number of units sold has gone down but so has the average number of days on market. Although prices are still down, they are holding a slightly steady pace and not dropping at an unruly pace.

Worcester is still wide open to investors and those looking to purchase a home at a reasonable price. Grea values can be found throughout the city making it a great option for first time home-buyers as well. Commuters to Boston will also find it a nice alternative with the ability to get "more bang for yoru buck".

If you're thinking of selling your Worcester, MA home, give me a call (978-273-5691) to discuss my marketing plan for your home and the Digital Marketing Strategy I'll use to get your home sold.

Considering buying in Worcester? I can help.

New Stove!

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 15:31:00 +0000

When we purchased and moved into our home last Summer we knew we'd need to replace the appliances pretty quickly. However, other renovations got the better of our attention and the only appliance that got replaced right away (because it didn't work) was the dishwasher.

Fast forward to February 2010. . . one evening my husband is in the kitchen boiling water to make dinner while my son and I are in the living room playing with some toys. I'd had a fall on our stairs earlier in the week, so I was pretty much confined to the couch for a few days. Anyway, as we're playing in the living room I see a bright flash and hear a huge pop like a gunshot go off in the kitchen. Of course I yell out to my husband who is ducking out of the kitchen saying "I'm ok" and looking perplexed. What happened? It seems that one of the coils on our stove had had enough and simply decided to melt away and take one of my pots with it. Instantly, we decided, we need to get a new stove!

Fast forward to August 2010. . . We bought a new stove! After the coil burning incident in February, we found that we could use the other three coils and proceeded to do so knowing we were taking a risk each time. However, I don't need to tell you that there can always be something else taking precedence in situations like this. However, for tax free weekend in MA, we went out and purchased what we now feel to be not only a safer appliance, but a less costly appliance since our last one could have easily been from the 1960's.

Lesson: First things first! Replace old appliances because you never know what damage they may cause, and they are energy suckers! We were lucky, but we're not taking that for granted. Next on our list. . . the 1970's refrigerator that is sucking the life energy out of our budget!

Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge, MA

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:00:00 +0000

On Friday, my family and I went out to Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, MA. We'd gotten wind that it was a "Free Friday" and since we'd never been, we decided to go. It was a really interesting place full of vibrant history and fun things to do. Here is a photo story of our trip.

Composting in our Worcester, Massachusetts yard

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 13:41:00 +0000

We've started a compost box in our backyard! It's something we've talked about doing since moving into our house a year ago, but never got around to doing. When you think of composting you're led to believe that you need expensive special equipment just to start. While doing research I found that all you needed was the desire and materials. Since our desire was already there, and the materials are all around us, we went for it!

I found this really easy website Composting 101 where it talks very simply about what composting is, how it's beneficial and how to do it. After reading I found I had everything I needed so I found a cardboard box (which will degrade as time passes), got all the food scraps we'd been hoarding for the past week, old newspapers and even some lint and threw them together. The final step was finding a sunny spot in the yard to place my "pile" and watch is transform.

Now, I know this is a very simplistic way of putting composting together, but I think taking the step is the most important thing. Now that it's started, we can tweek it as necessary along the way, and get fancier as we go. For now, I'm just exctied to see what develops and looking forward to using our new compost in about 8 - 12 months! I'll keep you posted. In the meantime, check out the website and the following books.

Next year, I start a vegetable garden. . . .

Shrewsbury, MA Real Estate Market Report for July 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 13:03:00 +0000

Welcome to Shrewsbury, MA Prior to the Revolutionary war Shrewsbury's economy was based on agriculture, but following the war and the economic hardships that followed, a leather industry grew and local farmers developed large cattle herds to support the manufacture of boots and shoes. The real estate landscape shaped up in July 2010 to include the following:

Total properties sold - 20 (down 13 units from 2009 and 9 units from 2008)

Average days on market - 158 (up 68 days from 2009 and up 15 from 2008)

Average list price - $437,946 (up $103,019 from 2009 and up $28,985 from 2008)

Average sale price - $424,292 (up $97,634 from 2009 and up $31,177 from 2008)

Average sale price to list price ratio - 96% (down 2% from 2009 but equal to 2008)

This information shows that historically over the past two years the number of units sold has gone down but well as listing and selling prices have increased. Time on the market has increased in the past month. If we consider historical data from 2008 to present we can see that home sales in terms of dollars seem to have rebounded in Shrewsbury, MA, however, the number of days on market is still high.

True to it's history, Shrewsbury remains a great option as a "suburb" of Worcester and a great value to new home buyers. Commuters to Boston will also find it a nice alternative with the ability to get "more bang for yoru buck".

If you're thinking of selling your Shrewsbury, MA home, give me a call (978-273-5691) to discuss my marketing plan for your home and the Digital Marketing Strategy I'll use to get your home sold.

Considering buying in Shrewsbury or Worcester? I can help.

Worcester MA Real Estate Market Report July 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Worcester, MA The original inhabitants of the area were the Pakachoag tribe of the Nipmuc nation of Native Americans. They called the area Quinsigamond which means "fishing place for pickerel." Mount Wachusett was their sacred place. The real estate landscape shaped up in July 2010 to include the following:

Total properties sold - 63 (down 40 units from 2009 and 21 units from 2008)

Average days on market - 113 (down 8 days from 2009 and 35 from 2008)

Average list price - $191,373 (down $3,432 from 2009 and down $31,419 from 2008)

Average sale price - $184,674 (down $3,744 from 2009 and down $30,093from 2008)

Average sale price to list price ratio - 97% (down 1% from 2009 and equal to 2008)

This information shows that historically over the past two years the number of units sold has gone down, listing prices and selling prices are also down. Time on the market seems to have remained steady in the past two years. Therefore, homes that are being sold are being sold faster. If we consider historical data from 2008 to present we can see that home sales in terms of dollars seem to be holding steady in Worcester, MA. They have a long way to go to rebound to their 2008 levels.
Worcester is an excellent option for first time home buyers, investors and anyone ready to take full advantage of the real estate market for the long term. Prices remain low but are slowly gaining traction and a shift in the economic footing of the city could push prices higher in the coming months and years.

If you're thinking of selling your Worcester, MA home, give me a call (978-273-5691) to discuss my marketing plan for your home and the Digital Marketing Strategy I'll use to get your home sold. Buying in Worcester or Shrewsbury? I can help.

Worcester Restaurant Week 2010!

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Sun, 08 Aug 2010 12:59:00 +0000

One of the best things about living in any city is the ability to go to great restaurants. Not only do you want to have good food, but you want to have great ambiance. What's even better is when those restaurants open their doors at a discounted price so you are compelled to try them after putting it off for so long.

Worcester Restaurant Week just that opportunity! For $22.10 per person you can choose from a number of participating restaurants in Worcester and some surrounding towns and their special "Restaurant Week" menus. From Sushi to Burgers it's your choice and it's all so you can get out and enjoy the fare Worcester has to offer.

To find out more, go to http://www.worcesterrestaurantweek.com/ for a list of participating restaurants and to view their special menus. It's summer in the city, a great time to gather friends and try that place you've always meant to try. You've got until August 15, 2010

BTW - My sisters and I went out on Thursday evening to "The Sole Proprietor" it was a fabulous meal with great ambiance! The restaurant week offerings were delicious!

136 Grandview Ave. Worcester, MA 01603 - Inviting Colonial

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 11:00:00 +0000

This beautifully well-kept colonial is located in the Webster Square part of Worcester, MA. Built in 1905 this lovely home has retained many of is original detailing. Having had only 3 owners in the last 105 years means each owner has done their part in updating and maintaining this home.

There are three bedrooms and one bath along with a family room, a living room and a dining room. The kitchen boasts a magnificent valuted ceiling which makes the already ample space seem much larger. It's also well lit by a skylight and a ceiling fan light.

Stained glass, hard wood floors, carved stair railings, front porch, screened in back patio and wood moldings ares some of the detail features that put warmth and a sense of style into the home. If you'd like to see this home or find out more information you can visit this website, or call me at 978-273-5691. Your new home is waiting.

Worcester MA Real Estate Market Report June 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Worcester, MA the second largest city in New England behind Boston. In 1722 Worcester was incorporated as a town. The best way to know your value is to know the history. The real estate landscape shaped up in June 2010 to include the following:

Total properties sold - 100 (down 12 units from 2009 and 26 units from 2008)

Average days on market - 86 (down 49 days from 2009 and 56 from 2008)

Average list price - $199,785 (up $10,038 from 2009 and down $31,194 from 2008)

Average sale price - $194,784 (up $11,607 from 2009 and down $27,356 from 2008)

Average sale price to list price ratio - 98% (up 1% from 2009 up 2% from 2008)

This information shows that historically over the past two years the number of units sold has gone down, however, the listing prices, although down from 2008 levels are up from 2009 levels. The same can be said for selling prices. Time on the market has also decreased steadily in the past two years. Therefore, homes that are being sold are being sold faster. If we consider historical data from 2008 to present we can see that home sales in terms of dollars seem to be on the rebound in Worcester, MA, however, they have not yet fully rebounded to their 2008 levels. The number of days on market is under 90 days and still coming down.

Worcester is an excellent option for first time home buyers, investors and anyone who is ready to take full advantage of the real estate market for the long term. Prices remain low but are slowly gaining traction and a shift in the economic footing of the city could push prices higher in the coming months and years.

If you're thinking of selling your Worcester, MA home, give me a call (978-273-5691) to discuss my marketing plan for your home and the Digital Marketing Strategy I'll use to get your home sold.

>>Report based on single family home sales, does not include condos or multi-family units<<

Shrewsbury Massachusetts Real Estate Market Report for June 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Shrewsbury, MA a town that was originally settled in 1722 and grew as a suburb to Worcester (pronounced "wuh-stah") and named after Shrewsbury, England. The best way to know your value is to know the history. The real estate landscape shaped up in June 2010 to include the following:

Total properties sold - 41 (up 8 units from 2009 and 9 units from 2008)

Average days on market - 119 (down 6 days from 2009 and up 20 from 2008)

Average list price - $459,641 (up $56,950 from 2009 and up $10,658 from 2008)

Average sale price - $451,509 (up $63,997 from 2009 and up $15,939 from 2008)

Average sale price to list price ratio - 98% (equal to 2009 but up 1% from 2008)

This information shows that historically over the past two years the number of units sold has gone up as well as listing and selling prices. Time on the market has fluctuated a bit decreasing from 2009 numbers but up from 2008. If we consider historical data from 2008 to present we can see that home sales in terms of dollars seem to have rebounded in Shrewsbury, MA, however, the number of days on market is still high but coming down slowly.

True to it's history, Shrewsbury remains a great option as a "suburb" of Worcester and a great value to new home buyers. Commuters to Boston will also find it a nice alternative to city living.

If you're thinking of selling your Shrewsbury, MA home, give me a call (978-273-5691) to discuss my marketing plan for your home and the Digital Marketing Strategy I'll use to get your home sold.

>>Report based on single family home sales, does not include condos or multi-family units<<

Usable water in your basement. . . Dehumidifier

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:00:00 +0000

With the heat we've been having here in the Northeast, many counties have experienced a water shortage and issued a ban on water use. Usually what that means is the grass will turn brown and the outside flowers will die. However, if you are like most people in the Northeast, you probably have a dehumidifier somewhere in your home. It's a handy gadget that pulls the moisture from the air and condenses it into it's "water" form. That's usually important so odors and mold don't take over your bathroom or basement or wherever it is you have found it necessary to run the gadget.
Well, what if, instead of throwing the condensation down the drain, you poured it into a large holding area and used it to water your plants, clean your floors or windows? You'd use less water from the faucet, lower your water bill and be eco-friendly. The water that comes from your dehumidifier is not recommended for drinking, but for many other household chores, it does the job. Personally, I pour it into the watering sprinkler and use it for my plants, or I pour it into a bucket add "Murphy's Oil" and clean the house. What can you do with some extra water. . . and some extra cash?

Open Houses - Goldmine of Information for Home Sellers

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 14:45:00 +0000

If you're thinking about selling your house in the next 3-6 months, this post is for you. Once you've made the decision to sell your house, it's time to do some research, and nothing holds more information for you than your neighborhood open houses.

Selling a home is not an easy task, there are a number of things to consider and projects to be done. If you start your information gathering early, you'll be able to prepare you home for a successful sale.

Chances are, there are at least a few homes in your neighborhood that are for sale already. If not, expand your radius and see what's on the market. Once you've determined the homes that are for sale, find out when their open houses will be held. This information is key because the homes closest in style and proximity to yours, are going to be your biggest competition once you put your house up for sale. Now, visit these open houses as if you were a potential buyer. Below is a list of things you should do and consider as you walk through the home:

- What does the curb appeal say to you?
- When you walk into the front door, does the house welcome you?
- What are the details that stand out to you?
- What bothers you?
- Is it clean?
- Do you see yourself living there?
- How does it smell?
- Does the decor distract you?
- Do you find yourself looking at the stuff in the house more than the house itself?

Once you've walked through and taken your notes, when you get back to your house, do the same thing. Look at it as if you were a potential buyer and go through the same list. If you find that the answers you come up with don't appeal to you, start making a list of what needs to be done in the house and get to them. If you do this several times before putting your house for sale, your house will stand out from the crowd when it hits the streets. And in this real estate market, standing out is what you want to do.

Prepare your home for sale
Get your home SOLD

Daniel - "You've changed my life"

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:05:00 +0000

Yesterday morning at 3:30 am I got home safely after driving 20-hours from Orlando, FL to Worcester, MA. I took it upon myself to get here early because I had showings scheduled with a couple and a client that called on 1301 Pleasant Street. I got a few hours of sleep, worked on my computer then got a call from my buyers that were not going to be able to view homes. I wasn't too disappointed because I was still tired and felt like I was just pushing myself. So I took a nap and prepared to go to the 6pm showing. No Show, no call. I was a little frustrated since I did go out of my way a bit to be there. So I left there and as I always do I checked out Daniel's home from the outside.

Daniel is a client I helped purchase a home in January. He found one of my flyers and called me. . . His home is on the way to 1301 Pleasant so I pass it quite often. As I passed, I noticed Daniel was in his yard so I made a u-turn, parked and went to speak with him. As I walked up I could already tell things were different with him. A crew cut and a goatee were my first indications. As we spoke I realized this Daniel was a bit different from the one I'd met late last year. I complimented him on the new siding work he'd done on his home and the new truck he purchased. Daniel was a smart buyer. He knew from the beginning in which neighborhood he wanted to live, and the cost he wanted to pay. I was a facilitator in finding him the right house at the right price. As we continued to talk I found out he'd actually done quite a bit more to the home that wasn't visible to the eye and that he'd lost some weight. . . I soon came to find out he'd lost 50 lbs.

As I was getting ready to leave, Daniel says to me "I'm so glad I got your card. My whole life is different now. Thank you so much. I'm so happy to have met you." After the day I'd had I can't begin to tell you how great it was to hear that from him. Sometimes it's easy to get frustrated and forget why you do what you do, but a brief momentary reminder can make all the difference.

It was my pleasure to work with Daniel, and if ever the need arises for him again, I'd like to be the one he chooses to work with. Each client make an impact, good or challenging, and each one reminds us why we do what we do and why we love it so.

Daniel, the feeling is mutual "you too have changed my life" and the pleasure was truly all mine!!

Before & After in Orlando - It's always fun!

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 16:51:00 +0000

So this week, I've been spending time with my aunt. My dad's sister spent the better part of her adult life taking tremendous care of my grandmother. In April, my grandmother passed away at the age of 104. When we all came down for the funeral in April, I wanted to stay and help my aunt, however, life in MA was calling. So I made a plan to come down in June and take care of her a little bit. This past week I've been doing just that.

Between working in the mornings and evenings I've been able to help her update her look, and re-do her bedroom. I'm no decorator, however, I do love decorating and having a blank canvas like my aunt's bedroom was great fun! On the first day we didn't do anything in the house. I went to meet with Vince Arcuri in Tampa and took my aunt to visit another aunt in Tampa. While I was revving up on work techinques, she got to spend time with my mom's sister and later in the day we went and saw another aunt. I learned a lot for my business and she got out of the house to visit friends, something that has not been easy for her while taking care of my grandmother.

On Tuesday morning we hit the stores and picked up paint, curtains and a new comforter set. In the afternoon, we got to work on her new bedroom oasis. On Wednesday we had a photo shoot with her photographer son Claude (my very talented cousin). I took new professional shots, she took some beautiful portrait shots and we took some together. We had a blast and got some great shots out of it. Yesterday we completed the bedroom project and today, I'm spending some time resting in order to hit the road in the morning.

Giving back to my aunt has been such a great experience for me. I love her and she's, of course, been around all my life. But to be able to play a small part in helping her come back to life has been great! She's ready and willing to tackle a new life, now she has a bedroom to reflect that. Here are some fun before and after pic for you to see.

Before:

After:

Meeting Worcester - Coming Soon

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 11:00:00 +0000

I'm a real estate agent in Worcester, MA. Sometimes, when I'm away from my surrounds and I'm meeting with others from MA, they ask where I work and I say "I work mostly in Worcester, MA." I get that split second look. I know that look. It's the one that says, "you work in Worcester, why?" I never acknowledge or go into that question unless it happens to fall out of their mouths, but I thought to myself, I like Worcester, but my perspective is not the one everyone needs to see.

In a couple of weeks I'm hitting the streets of Worcester to talk to others who live, work and play here to get their take on Worcester. It gives me the opportunity to meet more people and for them to tell their story, right here. . . so come meet Worcester, MA right here on this blog starting July 1, 2010. Who knows, you may be the next "featured guest".

National Multiple Sclerosis Society Walk - Auburn, MA September 26, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 11:00:00 +0000

On September 26, 2010 I will be taking a walk with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in Auburn, MA. I've registered for the MS Walk because I know first hand the uncertainty of having and living with MS and the frustration it can bring. I'm walking because I'm doing something for friends, family and friends and family I have not yet met who have been diagnosed or will be diagnosed in the next hour.

Having multiple sclerosis means different things to different people. The symptoms of MS, although they may be universal in cause, are different for everyone, because we are each unique individuals. No two people experience it in the same way. The only certainty with MS is that it will affect another person every hour of every day.

Today, there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, but tomorrow can be different. Today is an opportunity to show my support of not only my family but of all the families affected by MS, so that tomorrow can be different for us all. Today I walk because I care and tomorrow, I will continue to care. To help support me and those who choose to join my team, visit my Participant Page, whatever you choose to do in support is sincerely appreciated. It's not every day we get to walk for those who may not be able to walk for themselves.

September 25th is my birthday, I will celebrate with my family on September 26th starting with a walk to give a gift to others. Thank you for your support.

Shrewsbury, MA Real Estate - Monthly Snapshot

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:23:00 +0000

When listening to the latest real estate reports we sometimes get caught up in the hype without realizing that every state, city and town and even certain blocks react differently in any real estate market. For example, what may be true for Massachusetts as a whole, may not hold true for Shrewsbury, MA or any other city/town within Massachusetts. That's why it's important to get local information rather than to rely on the national or even statewide stats.

Below is information for real estate activity in Shrewsbury, MA for the past month (5/15 - 6/15)

Most popular price range for active listings: $150,000 - $199,999
Average List price: $217,730
Percentage lost due to price changes: -5.17% (totals about $11,151.08 in possible dollars lost
Average price of pending sales: $170,784
Average price of homes sold: $182,530

This information is helpful whether you are in the market to buy or sell a home in Shrewsbury, MA because it gives you the information necessary to make an informed decision. Speaking to a local real estate agent that is keeping up with this information will give you an edge and allow you to do well, even in a soft marked like we're in today.

Stay informed, it's the best way to ensure an exciting and fun real estate experience. Give me a call, I'd be more than happy to take a look at your particular neighborhood and let you know what's happening closest to you.

1301 Pleasant Street, Worcester, MA - Great value!

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 12:49:00 +0000

Open House, Sunday June 13, 2010, 12pm - 2pm

This amazing Tatnuck (Worcester, MA) home is a brand new gem waiting for its new resident family! A completely updated modern kitchen, and new baths complement the 5 bedrooms, sitting room, sun room and dining room. It offers a magnificent surround to raise a family and make memories.

Large or growing families will enjoy the spaciousness of this 2038 square foot frame bungalow home. The traditional floor plan also delivers a built-in hutch, a master suite with walk-in his & her closets, a distinctive formal living room with fireplace, wood beam ceilings and wood floors. Come by and see this lovely home in person this weekend.

To see extra photos, print a flyer and get more information click Here.

Massachusetts Association of Realtors - Realtor Day at the Hill

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 12:38:00 +0000

Yesterday was the annual Realtor Day at the Hill gathering sponsored by the Massachusetts Association of Realtors. It's a day when Realtors from all over the state gather at the Capitol building and make their presence known on the Hill. It's a wonderful opportunity to not only meet state representatives, but to network with Realtors throughout the state and find out what's going on politically and legally in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

I decided to go because since I've decided to be a real estate agent that is also a Realtor, I'd like to see the organization at work. I've had many opportunities via the training I've been able to take and the benefits offered the membership, however, it's a whole different thing when it comes to getting things done politically. I went in with only one expectation, to meet fellow professionals and have a few meals. Turns out, It was a lot more than that.

Yes, I saw some friends and made some new ones and yes we did eat, however, we also got to know exactly the issues that would affect us and our clients directly and we got to hear from and speak with legislators directly. It was a distinguished list of guests and a truly fun time.

Among the speakers were:

The Honorable Therese Murray, Senate President and the first woman senate president in the history of Massachusetts. Even with a freshly broken foot she came out to speak to us yesterday. Ms. Murray was once a Realtor and understands what we face in the trenches every day.

The Honorable Richard R. Tisei who is the Senate Minority Leader and also a candidate for Lieutenant Governor running with Charlie Baker. Richard Tisei is also a Realtor and Owner of Northrup Realtors in Lynnfield, MA. I had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Tisei and found him to be engaged and personable, qualities I'm sure have served him well as a real estate agent and now on his political trajectory.

I enjoyed the talks, but I enjoyed meeting new Realtors even more. There's nothing like making a connection with people that not only understand what you do, how it is best to be done, but who are just great fun and inspiring. What was I inspired to do? I took a walk in my neighborhood last night and introduced myself to those I saw and some that I'd seen but never really spoke to before. I let them know that I'm a neighbor, I'm an agent and I'm ready to serve.

It all really does start, right where you are.

Easy Green Living Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 11:00:00 +0000

Today it seems more people are working on being environmentally friendly and it's no different in Worcester, MA. Whether you believe in global warming or not, it's a good idea to help preserve the planet for the many species of animals living here with us and for future generations. In Worcester, MA we have a recycling system that makes it easy for every resident to do their part. We gather the recyclable materials together, put them in the same bin and place them outside our homes on "trash day". There's no sorting involved, the truck simply comes through picks it up and takes it to the recycling center.

Although trash recycling is one way to go green, there are a number of ways homeowners and renters can go green inside their homes as well. I'm sure you've heard about changing the iridescent bulbs to "CFL" (compact florescent bulbs) throughout the house and using less water, however, there are a few more that will benefit your financial situation as well as the environment. Below is a list compiled from several sources to help you get started:

When it's time to recycle your computer, consider purchasing a laptop vs. a desktop. A laptop uses 50% less energy than a desktop when plugged in.
Use a power strip and shut down any idle electronics. Using a power strip for items used but not needed in an "on" position all the time will help you shut things down and re-start as needed during the day. Computers, printers, televisions etc. can all be turned off completely and restarted when needed.
Wrap your water heater in an insulation blanket. It will keep the water hotter longer and keep the heater from working overtime. If you take the extra step and wrap your water pipes as well, that will keep the water in the pipes at their temperature for longer and reduce the possibility of freezing and bursting pipes in the Winter.
Turn down your thermostat. Even if it's by 1 degree you can save up to 10% on your energy bills. That's pretty good for one degree!
When your old appliances such as refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, washers and dryers need recycling, make sure you're purchasing an "Energy Star" rated replacement. Energy Star rated appliances can save you a lot of money on your energy bills because their new technologies use less water, energy and are more efficient.
Finally, think and eat locally. The food grown closest to you had less miles to travel than the food grown even in the next state. Support your local farmers! If something you'd like to have isn't grown in your state, consider a substitute, or see if it's it's grown in your region. Start close then expand from there. In Worcester, MA (rather Worcester County) there are 30+ farms to select from, all growing various items. Make it a fun adventure for the family.

Whatever we can do in our small corners of the world can have a big impact on the planet we live on. Save some money and save the planet. . . what could be better? Remember: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Respect.

The Kaizen Way - One Small Step Can Change Your Life

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 11:59:00 +0000

Whenever a new year rolls around I don't make resolutions. What I do is implement changes, randomly, that I think would benefit me for the year and beyond. This year I started waking at 6:00 am every morning to write a "morning page" (I'll write more about that another time) and read for at least 1/2 an hour. It's June and I'm still doing what I set out to do and loving it! I've read more books this year than the last three combined and I'm on track to really make a dent in my "would love to read" list (which is growing everyday!). In attending a few training sessions and seminars that are offered by EXIT Realty, one book has been mentioned over and over again by Tami Bonnell so I opted to make it one of my first reads. The book One Small Step Can Change Your Life: The Kaizen Way Not only reinforced what I had managed to do along the way, but gave me ideas of other small steps that would be beneficial to getting to other goals be they personal, financial, spiritual or professional.

I don't know what you do on a daily basis at work, home or play, but as a real estate agent I know that everyday is a lesson in self-motivation and getting to your goals. This book will help you take a look at the goals you want to reach from a different angle. Instead of looking at the "HUGE" picture, as most of us tend to do, it says to look at one small step and make that a habit to build upon. I used to hate getting up any earlier than 7 am especially when I had to get up at 5:30 am. Now, I don't feel good when it's a weekday and I don't get up at 6 am. I feel like something is missing and my day hasn't started on the right foot.

Whatever your goal, whatever your desire, pick up the Kaizen way and see how you can reach it, one small step at a time.

EXIT Realty Educates the Public in Free Webinar June 8: Real Estate After April 30th...What Now?

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 13:02:00 +0000

So you didn't buy a home before the first time homebuyer tax credit expired on April 30th... what now? Are there still good deals to be had? EXIT Realty Corp. International will be hosting a free, live, public webinar designed to help consumers make smart decisions before they buy or sell a home. U.S. home buyers and sellers are encouraged to tune in for the discussion.

Entitled "Real Estate After April 30th - What Now?", the 30-minute webinar will be hosted by real estate expert and President of the US Organization of EXIT Realty Corp. International, Tami Bonnell, and will be held at two times, 4:00 pm ET and 7:00 pm ET on Tuesday, June 8th. This webinar is the second in the popular series hosted by Bonnell.

"There are still many good reasons to jump into the real estate market," says Bonnell, "but you really need to know what to look for. Educated buyers and sellers make the best decisions for their families and that's what we hope to do through this webinar series - educate. No hype, just the facts."

Bonnell will address low mortgage rates, tax deductions, 203k loans and affordability among other topics.

To register, click:

Here for the 4:00 pm ET session or

Here for the 7:00 pm ET session

About Tami Bonnell: Tami Bonnell is a thirty-year veteran of the real estate industry and was instrumental in building three major brands. Among her many achievements, she was recognized by real estate trend-watcher, Stefan Swanepoel, as one of the 100 Most Influential Women in Real Estate.

Ms Bonnell has been a featured speaker at the National Association of REALTORS® convention to the Top 500 Power Brokers, The Women’s Council of REALTORS®, Inman News Connect Conference and she will be speaking at the opening session of RISMedia’s Leadership Conference next week in New York. Along with several other national and local speaking engagements, Ms Bonnell hosts quarterly webinars educating the general public on real estate issues.

She is a wife, mother of three and grandmother of two. In her spare time she is a martial artist, coach, judge and referee.

Ms. Bonnell has been the President of the US Organization of EXIT Realty Corp. International since 2001.

Shrewsbury, MA Real Estate Foreclosure & Short Sale Properties in Shrewsbury

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Mon, 31 May 2010 13:52:00 +0000

If you're in the market to buy a home in Shrewsbury, MA there is no better time than now. Although foreclosures are not prominent in the Shrewsbury, MA landscape there are a few along with a few homes being offered on Short Sale. Both options offer an opportunity to purchase a home at a fair market value and build equity in the coming years.

Where do you start looking? How about searching for foreclosures here*. Right now, in Shrewsbury, MA there are 3 Foreclosed Single Family homes waiting for the right person to snatch them up and 11 homes being offered by their owners on a short sale. They range in price from $155,182 to $629,900. They are all styles and sizes so it's up to you to decide what fits you and your lifestyle best.

A foreclosure can be an amazing option for getting into a new home below market value, however, it isn't easy to get all the information you may need to make an informed decision. It's more important to make sure you have all the proper inspections done and all the documentation confirmed. A short sale can also be a tricky situation because of all the paperwork involved and the need to wait on a third party approval before moving toward a closing. Having a professional working with you can greatly reduce the stress of buying a "distressed" property. I enjoy helping buyers get into the home of their dreams and this would be no different. Give me a call 978.368.7478 or email me at smaruska34[at]gmail[dot]com with questions, comments or concerns and I'll help you wade through them.

*Sign-up is required, however, if you don't want to be contacted, simply put your desires in the comments section.

Central and Western Massachusetts Auctions Week of May 24, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Sedruola Maruska) — Mon, 24 May 2010 13:43:00 +0000

Investors and buyers, here is a list of the homes going to auction this week in Central and Western Massachusetts.

May 24, 2010
11 a.m., Kaminski, 564 Cabot St., Beverly.

May 25, 2010
6 p.m., Arthur A. Crisafulli & Co., 101 Hicks Ave., Medford.
6 p.m., Northfield Auctions, 105 Main St., Northfield.
6 p.m., Gabriel’s, 194 Vanderbilt Ave., Norwood.
3:30 p.m., VFW, 123 Holliston St., Medway.
6:30 p.m., First Church Hall, Route 12, Sterling.
6:30 p.m., Hotel Northampton, 36 King St., Northampton.